In simple words: This code represents a diagnosis of an acute infection of the upper respiratory tract that doesn't fit into a more specific category.

Acute upper respiratory infection, unspecified. Upper respiratory disease, acute. Upper respiratory infection NOS. Use additional code (B95-B97) to identify infectious agent, if known, such as: respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) (B97.4)

Example 1: A patient presents with a runny nose, cough, and sore throat. The physician diagnoses an acute upper respiratory infection but does not specify the cause, so J06.9 is used., A child presents with cold-like symptoms.Testing for influenza and strep throat is negative.The physician diagnoses a viral upper respiratory infection, unspecified, and uses J06.9., A patient with a history of allergies complains of nasal congestion, sneezing, and a headache. After examination, the physician determines the patient has a viral upper respiratory infection rather than an allergic reaction, but does not identify a specific virus. J06.9 is appropriate in this case.

Symptoms such as cough, runny nose, sore throat, sneezing, and headache should be documented. Physical exam findings should be noted. If any specific tests (e.g., rapid strep test, influenza test) were performed, the results should be recorded.The lack of findings that would lead to a more specific diagnosis should also be documented.

** Unspecified codes are generally discouraged if further information is available for a more specific diagnosis.While J06.9 can be used for viral upper respiratory infections if the specific virus is not identified, avoid using this code if a more descriptive diagnosis (e.g., acute nasopharyngitis (J00), acute laryngitis (J04.0), acute tracheitis (J04.2)) can be made. As of November 30, 2024, this information is current.Coding guidelines and regulations are subject to change.